الفيلر(Filler)

Filler

(Medical Procedures and Examination)

This topic will help you learn about the filler procedure and how to prepare for it.

What is the filler procedure?

• Filler is: a gel-like substance injected under the skin to reduce wrinkles and lines and restore facial volume and fullness. Filler is a cost-effective way to achieve a more youthful appearance without surgery or a long recovery period. The types of substances used in fillers vary, and the most suitable type is determined according to the patient’s condition. The duration of its effect depends on the type of material injected.
• Types of fillers:
• Hyaluronic acid: Hyaluronic acid is: a natural substance already present in the skin that helps keep it plump and hydrated. It is usually smooth and gel-like, and its results are temporary, lasting from 6 to 12 months or more before the body gradually and naturally absorbs the substance. Most fillers of this type are combined with lidocaine, which helps reduce discomfort during and after the procedure.
• Calcium hydroxylapatite: It is a substance found mainly in bones and teeth. When used in fillers, calcium particles are suspended in a soft gel, usually thicker in texture than hyaluronic acid, and tend to last longer. It also helps stimulate natural collagen production and is commonly used for deep lines and wrinkles.

Poly-L-lactic acid: Poly-L-lactic acid is a safe, synthetic, and biodegradable substance that has been used for many years in medical procedures such as dissolvable sutures. It is technically classified as a collagen stimulator because its main mechanism for smoothing fine lines is helping the skin rebuild natural collagen. The filler gel itself disappears within days after treatment. Poly-L-lactic acid is usually used to treat deep facial wrinkles, and the results can last for more than two years. The chemical composition varies in terms of duration and smoothness, and the degree of softness is chosen by the doctor based on experience. Softer fillers are used for the lips, while firmer ones may be needed for the cheekbones.

Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA):It is a safe synthetic substance that is non-biodegradable and has been used in medicine for the past century. It contains collagen and forms tiny microspheres that remain under the skin indefinitely to provide continuous support.

How is the procedure performed?

The doctor cleans the skin and examines the areas that may need filler. Then a cleanser or cream containing an anesthetic is applied to numb the area, making the procedure less painful and more comfortable. The doctor injects small amounts of filler under the skin using a fine needle. You may feel a sting or pinch, but most people do not experience significant pain during the procedure. If filler is injected into several areas, the entire process may take a few minutes or up to half an hour.

• When is the filler procedure done?
• As the body ages, it naturally loses subcutaneous fat, making smile lines and fine lines more visible. Filler is performed to reduce signs of aging on the face, lips, and hands, and it can also be used to:
• Increase fullness in the lips, cheeks, and chin.
• Add volume to the back of the hands.
• Fill the hollows under the eyes and along the jawline.
• Correct moderate to severe facial wrinkles.
• Correct acne scars on the cheeks.HIV).
• Reduce chin wrinkles.
• Restore facial fat loss in people with HIV.

Smooth lines around the nose and mouth (also known as smile lines).

Improve facial symmetry.

How to prepare?

Filler is a medical procedure that requires expertise and skill to ensure safe and natural results. It is essential to choose a doctor with extensive knowledge and experience. Before the injection, the area is cleaned and may be numbed with a local anesthetic to reduce pain. Some types of filler contain lidocaine to minimize discomfort. After the injection, results may appear immediately, with possible bruising or mild swelling that subsides within a few days. Normal activities can be resumed right away, but strenuous exercise should be avoided. The doctor may provide an ice pack to reduce pain and swelling. Results vary between individuals and depend on the type of filler used.

Frequently asked questions(FAQ):

How long do the results of filler last?

• The duration of filler results depends on the type of filler, the injected area, and the individual. In general, the denser and deeper the filler is injected, the longer the results last.
• What are the possible side effects of the filler procedure?
• Bruising.
• Redness.
• Temporary numbness.
• Swelling.

Pain.

Itching and rash.

• Most side effects occur shortly after the injection and disappear in less than two weeks.
• When should you see a doctor?
• In case of bleeding or pain.
• When the skin or lips are damaged.
• If the injected material moves to other areas.
• If the material leaks or ruptures from the injection site.
• When permanent hard nodules form in the face or hand.

If signs of infection appear, including fever, redness, or swelling at the injection site.

When allergic or anaphylactic reaction symptoms occur, such as difficulty or shortness of breath.

• What are the possible complications after filler injection?
• Serious complications are rare, and some side effects are only temporary. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks, including:
• Asymmetrical appearance.
• Bleeding, bruising, redness, pain, and swelling.
• Scarring.
• Infection, which in severe cases can lead to necrosis (death of affected skin).
• Lumps or bumps under the skin.
• Numbness.

Acne-like eruptions.

Rash and itching.

• In rare cases, individuals may experience vision problems after filler injections. If you experience visual disturbances along with weakness, discomfort, or pain on one side of the body, seek medical attention immediately.
• Health education:
• Always make sure to receive approved materials authorized by relevant authorities.
• It is generally recommended to avoid intense physical activity or any strenuous effort within the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and bruising.
• It is important to stay away from direct sunlight.